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McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

By Edward Jones – September 10, 2020

See the Ulysse Nardin Dual Time's Updated Look for 2020

Just after the unveiling of the incredible Sparkling Blast, Ulysse Nardin is back with something that's a bit more understated. Their Dual Time models have just received a new and updated look that can be defined as both sporty and classic. Like the previous generations of the Dual Time, the watch's special features can be found at the 2, 6 and 9 o'clock. At the 2 o'clock is the date, 6 o'clock is the seconds hand and 9 o'clock dual-time display that can be adjusted via the pushers. For its new design, Ulysse Nardin slimmed up and stretched out the roman numerals at the 12, 3, 6 and 9 o'clock. In the center of the dial is a rectangle design that falls in line with their most recent designs. There are three different variants available: blue and stainless steel, black and stainless steel, and blue and 18ct rose gold. Each can come with either a sporty rubber strap with perforations or an alligator strap. The stainless steel models have a price of $8,300 while the rose gold model costs $22,800. You can learn more by clicking the button below. Visit Ulysse-Nardin.com

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 08, 2020

The New Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Self Winding Flying To...

Audemars Piguet has announced the release of an innovative take on a classic. The Swiss luxury timepiece manufacturer is crafting the Code 11.59 model as a Self Winding Flying Tourbillion Chronograph. It is the first time the company has fitted a classic style with the technology of a tourbillion and a state of the art flyback chronograph. The complex example by Audemars Piguet will be limited to 50 pieces. The 41mm case is made from 18-carat white gold and houses the self-winding cailbre 2952 that holds a power reserve of 65 hours. Audemars Piguet has designed the open-worked dial using dark blue with paint matched 18-carat white gold hands. The functions include the flying tourbillion, flyback chronograph, hours, and minutes showcased underneath the double glare-proofed sapphire crystal. The limited-edition Code 11.59 is water-resistant up to 30 meters. The strap is crafted from a hand-stitched blue alligator to match the inner dial with the infamous Audemars Piguet folding clasp done in 18-carat white gold. This timepiece by Audemars Piguet is bridging the gap between classic style and modern luxuries. For more information on the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Self Winding, Flying Tourbillion Chronograph, click the link below. Learn More

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 08, 2020

The New Richard Mille RM 72-01

Richard Mille continues to play a lead role in the luxury watch industry. The infamous design and attention to detail make it one of the most desirable timepieces on the market. Richard Mille has just released a new model labeled the RM 72-01, created as a lifestyle automatic chronograph. The case is a brushed titanium finish and available in both silver with a white rubber strap and gold with a black rubber strap. Complimenting the color choice is the crown, designed using the same material as the strap. The new RM 72-01 features Richard Mille’s in-house CRMC1 calibre design that drives the seconds, minutes and hours chronograph functions with a 50-hour power reserve. The skeleton backplate allows for a glimpse at the inner workings of Richard Mille’s newest addition, highlighting the patented Flyback system that ensures the most efficiently accurate way to keep time. Richard Mille continues to stay up to date with the latest technology and innovative functions embed into their timepieces. For more information on the Richard Mille RM 72-01 click the link below. Learn More Source: Richard Mille

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 02, 2020

Hublot's Special Edition Classic Fusion Limited to 50 Pieces

Hublot has announced the limited release of a classic fusion model that pays homage to the city of Rome. The Italian watch company celebrates one year since the inauguration of their boutique located in the heart of Rome, and what better way than to create a timepiece solely around the anniversary. The piece is named the Hublot Classic Fusion Chronograph Special Edition Boutique Rome and will be limited to 50 examples sold specifically in boutique located on the Piazza di Spagna. The timepiece features a 45mm created in brushed black titanium driven by Hublot’s HUB1143 chronograph movement that has a 42-hour power reserve. Engraved on the back of the case is “Special Edition / Boutique Roma xx/50” to signify the meaning behind the milestone. The strap is made from a combination of rubber and genuine leather with grey contrast stitching. The worn look of both the case and strap is meant to show honor to the old history of Rome. The inspiration behind this project shows great appreciation by Hublot which we believe will result in the 50 examples finding new owners as soon as they are released. Learn More

By Edward Jones – August 28, 2020

Ulysse Nardin Launches the New Blast Watch

Ulysse Nardin has unveiled the Blast model as the latest introduction to their lineup. This new watch was inspired by the forces of nature like glaciers and eruptions of magma, and modeled after stealth jet fighters. Buy Now Buy Now Buy Now Buy Now The first thing you'll notice about this watch is the amount of transparency is offers. The open-worked body is made possible thanks to the UN-172 movement with the new automatic silicium tourbillon and a three-day power reserve. This movement is housed in an X-shaped cage, similar to the "X" design found in the Diver X, Freak X and Skeleton X. Resting above the X cage is a rectangular frame, a design cue found in many other Ulysse Nardin watches. At the 12 o'clock, the barrel is seen, while the flying tourbillon rests at the 6 o'clock. The Blast model was designed after the sharp lines found on stealth jets. Ulysse Nardin actually reworked their signature three-horned strap fixture to have a geometric design that mirrors the wings of a stealth aircraft. " width="680"> Ulysse Nardin is releasing the Blast watch with three different models: Blue Blast ($44,000), Black Blast ($46,000), White Blast ($46,000) and Rose Gold Blast ($54,000). Each comes in the same 45 mm diameter but don different colorways that were inspired by the elements. You can learn more about this new and incredible Ulysse Nardin watch by clicking the button below. Visit Ulysse-Nardin.com

By Edward Jones – August 27, 2020

Breitling Debuts the New Endurance Pro Watch

Breitling has just launched a new watch that's designed with everyday athletes in mind. Introducing the new Breitling Endurance Pro. As part of the brand's Professional range, this sporty watch is a lightweight way for athletes and sports enthusiasts to enjoy Breitling's timekeeping excellence on the go. The Endurance Pro's Breitlight case measures in at 44mm. Breitlight is Breitling's proprietary material that's 3.3 times lighter than titanium and 5.8 times lighter than stainless steel. What's more, it's durable, being very resistant to scratches, traction and corrosion. Inside this case is the Breitling Caliber 82 with SuperQuarts tech, which is ten times more accurate than your typical quartz. On the dial, you can find the 1/10th second and 30-minute chronograph counters that Breitling has ensured are easy to read, even when you're on the run. Breitling is launching the Endurance Pro in five different color variations, each with a black dial and black bidirectional rotating bezel. The colors include white, blue, yellow, orange and red. Each comes with a matching Diver Pro strap and a price of $3,000. For more information and to shop these watches, be sure to click the button below. Shop Now

By Edward Jones – August 20, 2020

Wild Street Fighter Edition Seiko Watches Revealed

For decades, people have been both wearing the Seiko 5 Sports watch and also beating each other up in Street Fighter video games. While the two don't really go hand in hand, I'm sure someone at some point in time checked their 5 Sports watch to see if it was time to load the game up or head to the arcade. Why I bring this up is because Seiko has teamed up with Street Fighter to create a new line of 5 Sports watches that honor some of the most popular fighters in the franchise. These include Ryu, Ken, Chun-Li, Guile, Zangief and Blanka. Each of these fighters is represented by a special edition of the 5 Sports watch that feature designs inspired by them. For example, Blanka's watch is an electric green color with a bezel showing signs of crackling lightning. You can check them all out in the gallery below. If you're interested, they will be on sale this September and limited to 9,999 examples each. Shop Seiko Watches

By Edward Jones – August 19, 2020

Omologato Announces the New Heritage Racing Special Watch

Omologato's knack for paying tribute to motorsport history through watches is flawless. If you take just a quick look at their collection, you'll see exactly what I'm talking about. Their latest watch to honor the history of racing is the new Heritage Racing Special. This new watch dons a black and gold color scheme, which mimics the iconic John Player Special livery Lotus Formula 1 car. Altogether, this watch creates a stunning visual that's just as cool as the race car itself. What's more, this 42 mm stainless steel watch is powered by the precise Miyota Chronograph and won't skip a beat. Paired with the watch is a NATO polyester band that dons the same gold and black color scheme. The Omologato Heritage Racing Special watch will be available on November 15th, 2020 for $514.49 but you can pre-order yours by clicking the link below. Shop Now Gallery Images via Lotus Cars

By Edward Jones – August 19, 2020

Hublot Debuts the new Spirit of Big Bang Green Saxem

Hublot's ever-popular Spirit of Big Bang now has a new model that will leave you green with envy when you spot someone else wearing it. Why? because it's green, of course, and it's magnificent. Introducing, the new Hublot Spirit of Big Bang Green Saxem. To achieve the green color for the case, Hublot mixed aluminum oxide with rare-earth element. Matching the green of the case is the rubber strap, indexes, hands and logo at the 12 o'clock. At the heart of this watch is the HUB4700 caliber. This chronograph has a completely skeletonized movement and is incredibly precise. If you're interested, it comes with a price tag of $116,000. For more information, be sure to click the button below to visit Hublot.com. Learn More " width="680">

By Edward Jones – August 18, 2020

Greubel Forsey Debuts the New Balancier S

Greubel Forsey is known for their complications and intricate movements, but their latest release is one that aims for simplicity while maintaining the watchmaker's complex design. The new Balancier S is a sporty watch that may deceive eyes at first. With a curved designed, the arched sapphire bends itself over the case, creating a stunning visual. Underneath crystal is an angular dial that offers up a glimpse at the 30-degree inclined balance wheel system at the 7 o'clock. The dial also has a power reserve display, which maxes out at 72 hours. Greubel Forsey has also engineered this watch in a way that it's water-resistant up to 100 meters. This is partially made possible through the caseback that's partially exposed. As for the material used to create the Balancier S, GF went with titanium for style and rigidity. While the new Balancier S may not appear to be as complex as other Greubel Forsey timepieces, it's sportiness combined with a truly unique design make it a stunner in the world of horology. For more information, be sure to click the button below. Learn More Source: GreubelForsey.com

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